Definition: They give gifts to all whores: but thou givest thy gifts to all thy lovers, and hirest them, that they may come unto thee on every side for thy whoredom.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 16:33. It's a really powerful and unsettling statement about the nature of sin and temptation. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is condemning someone who engages in a very sinful practice – offering gifts to others for their pleasure and connection with them, while simultaneously indulging in that same behavior themselves . It's essentially saying they are prioritizing lust and selfish desires over true worship of God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “They give gifts to all whores…” – This refers to a woman who is engaged in prostitution or illicit sexual activity. It’s highlighting the activity itself . “…but thou givest thy gifts to all thy lovers, and hirest them…” - This is the crucial part. The person is offering their talents, skills, and affection (gifts) to others – specifically to those who are involved in their sin. “Hirest” means to employ or pay someone; it implies a transactional relationship where they're using someone else’s efforts for selfish gain. “…that they may come unto thee on every side for thy whoredom.” - This is the most damning part. "Whoredom" means ungodly, sinful pleasure and obsession. The verse warns that this person is actively seeking to engage in this sinful activity . It's saying their focus and desire are directed towards a selfish and disordered lifestyle – a pursuit of pleasure and connection that is not aligned with God’s will. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse paints a picture of someone consumed by sin, prioritizing fleeting gratification over spiritual growth and relationship with God. It’s a stark warning about the dangers of focusing on worldly desires instead of seeking holiness and obedience to God's commands. It's a call for a complete shift in priorities – moving away from selfish pursuits toward genuine worship and righteousness. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a condemnation of sexual immorality and idolatry, but it’s also a profound warning about the dangers of focusing on earthly pleasures instead of spiritual ones. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious advisor. This explanation is for informational purposes only and does not constitute religious commentary. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this passage? Discuss its symbolism within the Bible?